4 replies to this topic

[Cpt Davenport]

Antigravity offers a lithium starting battery as a direct replacement for the truck. Any experience or input about the beast?

 

This stems from my recent installation of an ARB compressor under the hood. I installed it in the pre-existing, extra battery tray. Every time I add weight to the rig I try to find a place to shave some pounds elsewhere if possible. If these lithium batteries are legit, I could shave 20-30lbs under the hood. I realize the cold weather issues, but I feel it would work in the geographical locations where I camp. 

 

Any other know sources for lithium starting batteries?

Edited by Cpt Davenport, 24 May 2023 - 03:58 AM.

[ckent323]

Most lithium ion starting batteries are intended for lower starting current environments than cars and trucks. such as motorcycles and outboard motors.

I do see that the Antigravity Lithium Battery is being marketed for vehicles.  It does have a caveat on lifetime (which is estimated to be 7-9 years depending on use and climate).
 

Eight hundred to over a thousand dollars for a lithium starting battery (the size needed for a truck engine) that will only last 7 - 9 years (with operating environment caveats) vs a $150 AGM battery that will last 4 - 5 years seems like a pretty expensive choice to me.

 

https://arstechnica....oure-expecting/

 

 

In general, lithium batteries are not suitable as car or truck starting batteries.  The high current flow during starter cranking can cause the battery management system to shut down (or be damaged) to protect the battery.  In addition, most vehicle charging systems are designed to charge lead acid (AGM) batteries not Lithium.  Also, charging lithium batteries when the temperature is below about 32 degrees F is problematic.

That written there are high performance (expensive) lithium batteries made for starting race cars.

Ref:
 

https://www.batterie...ithium-starting

 

See also:

https://www.eco-wort...s-start-battery


 

 

 

 

 

I hope this is helpful
 

Craig

Edited by ckent323, 24 May 2023 - 06:38 AM.

[Cpt Davenport]

My existing LA battery has 970 cranking amps while the Antigravity boasts 1500. They also claim that it is a plug and play replacement for factory LA batteries. The BMS prevents the battery from fully discharging, leaving enough juice for emergency start up. Antigravity calls it a wireless jumpstart and the battery comes with a key fob to activate the feature. I could see the charging in below freezing as an issue. But the only way my battery is currently charged is from the alternator under the hood. With the motor running, even in below freezing temps wouldn't the battery be well above freezing in the confined space heated by the engine operation?

 

I would like to see how their new Re-Start Technology plays out as units are purchased and tested in real world applications. This may not be the best answer, but it is refreshing that someone is focusing on creating a power source that reduces overall weight. My battery now weighs in at 47.5 lbs while the antigravity replacement is only 15.6 lbs. I think it is just a matter of time before the shortcomings are rectified and a lighter, more powerful and longer lasting alternative is made affordable for all. Fingers crossed. 

[JHanson]

We've had an Antigravity lithium starting battery in our Land Cruiser Troop Carrier for about two years and it's performed flawlessly so far. The battery's internal circuitry manages the input from the alternator. One caveat: it's not suitable as a power source for a winch.

 

LiFePO4 technology is advancing rapidly. I predict that within a year or two all the disadvantages of lithium (temperature sensitivity, etc.) will be solved. However, if they're going to become mainstream, manufacturers are going to have to step up with warranties commensurate with the price. If they boast about ten-to-twelve-year lifespans we need to see eight-year free replacement guarantees.

Edited by JHanson, 27 May 2023 - 03:46 PM.

[Cpt Davenport]

Thank you JHanson. Great to get some real world feed back. That’s encouraging.